Pivoting scissor action heavy bag mount

ABSTRACT

The scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount has an overhead attachment support bar, a minimum of two support arms each having at least one 360-degree movement hinge which allows for independent arm action to swing freely about a vertical axis in either direction in a 360-degree range also having a minim of one spring. The scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount is an exercise device that specifically supports the bag such that, hitting the bag allows the bag to move unpredictably in a variety of directions from the force of each strike thereby exercising, conditioning and developing the muscles of the user. The bag mount is designed so the bag will move laterally in a horizontal plane, with limited pendula motion having an endless path of movement simulating the movement of an opponent.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

References Cited [Referenced By] U.S. Patent Documents 3,424,458 January 1969 Hopps 3,447,074 May 1969 Sower et al. 3,547,438 December 1970 Schmitter 3,637,210 January 1972 Brantley 4,246,848 January 1981 Schneider 4,274,783 June 1981 Eineichner et al. 4,453,303 June 1984 Leddet 4,953,852 September 1990 Donohue 4,982,827 January 1991 Seitz et al. 5,048,822 September 1991 Murphy 5,061,148 October 1991 Petz 5,096,245 March 1992 Kikuchi et al. 5,224,912 July 1993 Moody 5,503,606 April 1996 Stephens 5,509,875 April 1996 Moretti 5,647,747 July 1997 Macri et al. 5,803,877 September 1998 Franey 5,819,906 October 1998 Enderlein et al. 5,844,240 December 1998 Lee et al. 5,897,466 April 1999 Capach 6,065,482 May 2000 Parslow, Jr. 6,220,992 April 2001 Shafik 6,530,867 March 2003 Schwendemann 6,758,794 July 2004 Lee 7,736,248 June 2010 Eldridge 7,789,811 September 2010 Cooper 2003/0146069 August 2003 Kaiser 2008/0035448 February 2008 Boberg et al. 2008/0149458 June 2008 Ehlert 2010/0089722 April 2010 Wiedemann et al. 4,911,428 March 1990 Wiece 8,936,536 January 2015 Detterberg

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

DESCRIPTION Field of the Invention

The present invention is a heavy bag exercise device which is specifically supported by an overhead attachment support bar having a 360-degree (bearing or pin hing) attaching to a support arm and at the other end of the support arm another 360-degree hinge attached to a second pivoting support arm which has a load spring between the two arms for purposes of capturing and adding movement to the support structure. The bag mount is specifically supported such that it provides multidirectional movement of the heavy bag to exercises, condition and develop the muscles of the user. The scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount is designed so the bag will move laterally in a horizontal plane simulating a sparring partner during boxing or other combat sport training.

Background of the Invention

Historically, a heavy bag has been used to allow a person to practice hitting and moving simulating an attack on an opponent. Normally, a bag is suspended by an eyelet from a ceiling or beam. When the bag is mounted this way, it provides a predictable pendula movement in a relatively small area of movement. This actually promotes standing in one spot which does not improve footwork, movement, or timing of footwork.

Another problem the current invention addresses are that with traditional hanging bags they fail to move like an opponent. The pivoting scissor action heavy bag mount is designed to allow the heavy bag to move like a person, that being laterally within the same horizontal plane. This movement is preferred over the pendula movement. By simulating the horizontal sliding movement of an opponent, the bag mount forces the user to focus on foot movement and positioning.

Another problem the current invention addresses are that with traditional hanging bags there is a limited range of movement over the floor. Punching a traditional hanging heavy bag is quite easy because of its limited predictable movement. The double action pivoting scissor heavy bag moves over an area of eight square feet, 64 cubic feet and does not predictably move along the same path within that movement area thereby requiring the user to consistently adjust for distance, timing and expand their range of movement in comparison to a traditional mounted heavy bag.

Another problem the current invention addresses are a more realistic conditioning through more realistic movement, larger area of movement and unpredictable movement. Previous inventions have attempted to provide mounts that move laterally within the same horizontal plane however, the construction of the current invention is considerably different than that of the prior art. Some examples of previous inventions with similar inventive intent but dissimilar construction follows.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,897,466 to Capach which like many others uses a support beam having a rolling assembly which the bag attaches to. The beam is affixed to a swivel which attaches to the ceiling. The beam mounted to the swivel provides the rotational movement desired and the rolling assembly or trolley allows the bag to move laterally within the same horizontal plane as the user. The current invention is significantly different in that it has two support arms and two 360-degree pivot joints allowing each arm to rotate independently of the other providing a larger area of movement with greater effectiveness when compared to the Capach design.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,224,912 to Moody is the predecessor of Capach's design which are nearly identical. Moody's design consists of a trolley mounted on an elongated rail or beam having a rotating shaft affixed to the ceiling mount which allows the frame to rotate and the athlete using it to strike the bag thereby moving the trolley along the beam. The current invention is significantly different in design due to its two 360-degree swivel joints which provides a continuous unpredictable bag movement quite different from Moody or Capach's design.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,758,794 to Lee is similar in that it has two frame members however the second frame member is a track system with a trolley similar to the beam and rail support used by Capach and Moody. The scissor action of the current invention is achieved by the connection of the 360-degree hinges near the ends of each support arm which eliminates the need for the trolley or track system. Additionally, Lee's design may be used with multiple bags where that is not the case with the current invention.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,048,822 to Murphy presents a design using a track and trolley configuration. Murphy's invention is designed to move in a predetermined path and has controls so a coach can set a predetermined speed or the bag may be moved manually along the same predetermined track. Although this invention provides a moving bag in the same horizontal plane it lacks the unpredictable movement associated with the scissor design of the current invention.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,777,819 to Quintana is similar in design to that of Murphy's in that it is a track and trolley system where the bag speed is controlled by a motor apparatus. Quintana incorporates a variable path, height and direction. Quintana's invention is significantly different in design and function when compared to the current invention.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,911,428 to Wiece is a mount for a heavy bag having a horizontal beam which is supported near the center by an overhead rotational joint which allows the beam to rotate 360 degrees. The bag is suspended at one end of the beam and the other end of the beam has an adjustable caster wheel which roles against the ceiling to balance or counteract the weight of the heavy bag while allowing for the bag to travel in a predetermined circle clockwise or counterclockwise. Although a solid invention it lacks the unpredictable bag movement of the current invention.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,936,536 to Detterberg provides an invention based on an idea of interconnected rotational discs whereas the first disk is mounted to the ceiling providing a rotational base and the successive disks attached each “rotatably connected” to one another. This approach provides a method where the bag moves in an unpredictable pattern. Although the end result of the movement of the heavy bag are similar to the current invention there are significant difference in construction and the current invention load spring set up actually increases the speed of the bag something Detterberg's invention does not do.

A heavy bag is generally used to develop power, attack methods and movement skills. A heavy bag is normally supported from a stationary point such as an eye-bolt. The rope or bag tether to the eyebolt usually only allows for limited feet movement. Efforts to support a heavy bag so that the bag moves unpredictably over a large area have been made however prior art devices fail to create a structure equivalent to that of the current invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is the intent of the present invention to provide a punching bag specifically supported such that it provides unpredictable movement along a variety of paths depending on the alignment of the hit. This allows for the user to develop muscles and improve footwork, conditioning and improve punching skills/power.

Another object of the present invention is for use in a boxing gym or martial arts studio. It can be owned by individuals which will hand the mount in garages, basements, attic's and the like, in their home as long as there is a supporting structure to mount to and an open area for bag and athlete movement.

The scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount having an overhead attachment support bar, a minimum of two support arms each having at least one 360-degree movement hinge which allows for independent arm action to swing freely in either direction about a vertical axis in a 360-degree range having a minim of one spring is currently manufactured out of metal. The mount may however be made of various types of metal such as aluminum, plastic or a composite to reduce the weight of the invention and improve its utility.

Another object of the invention is to provide a multidirectional movement bag mount without, oiling, grease, or a need for electricity. Only visual checks to see if the locking nuts are tight are needed, so less time and money are spent on maintenance.

A further objective of the current invention is to provide a lateral unpredictable moving bag so as to eliminate the need for a live sparring partner to develop skills. This allows the athlete to train and condition on their own at any time.

Other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there is shown in the drawings forms which are presently preferred; it being understood however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

FIG. 1 presents a side view of the scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount system interacting with a boxer.

FIG. 2 presents a transverse view of the scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount highlighting the 360-degree joint in this case a wheel bearing connecting the overhead attachment support bar to the main support arm.

FIG. 3 presents a side view of the scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount showing a close up providing a detailed view of the 360-degree joint between the main support arm and the pivoting support arm.

FIG. 4 presents a side view of the scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount with the load spring extended as the athlete is punching the bag.

FIG. 5 presents a side view of a triple action scissor pivoting heavy bag mount being used.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

This description is not intended to be limiting, it is made solely for the purpose of illustrating the principles of the invention. With regard to using the current invention the following illustrations should depict the function and items being claimed. Although only a couple variations in design are depicted in the drawings. Multiple variations exist but are not specifically shown or specified in the drawings please note variations can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims.

The design of the current invention is based on a minimum of one overhead attachment support bar two 360-degree hinges and two support arms and at least one load spring. This combination allows the bag to move unpredictably, similar to the movements of an opponent. The load spring creates additional movement of the bag which can be movement towards the athlete or away requiring the athlete to sidestep or move. The athlete must also move to keep up or cut the bag off as one would do an opponent in the ring. Changing direction, speed, and distance are key in learning footwork and attack combinations. The current invention is the only bag mount that actually increases the speed of movement of the bag based off the athlete's energy having no outside influences such as a motor or drive unit.

The scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount was designed for both the individual and the gym. There are multiple machine variations made of different size and dimension tubing, various diameters and thicknesses of metal tubing and different types of material such as; steel, aluminum or other materials such a wood, plastic or composites. Each designed for the gym or individual use.

The scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount was specifically designed to have limited maintenance. When bearings are used for the 360-degree hinges sealed bearing are installed. When pin and bushing 360-degree hinges are used the bushing replaces the need for oil. The maintenance of this invention is simply checking the bolts to ensure they have not loosened or checking the security of the lynch pin. Castellated nuts are used to prevent losing of the nuts and the pins use a locking clip not shown.

Lastly, the scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount was designed so an athlete will be able to practice sparring without having a live sparring partner. With the mounts unpredictable movement to include moving towards or away from the athlete while also having the potential to increase bag movement speed the current invention has no equal within the prior art.

The following narrative in conjunction with the drawings are written with the intent that any person of ordinary skill in the pertinent art would easily comprehend and be able to see the concept if improvement they embody. The current invention is enhanced by providing a simple yet effective system of 360-degree hinges which allows the bag to move easily toward or away from the athlete at varying speeds.

Referring now to the drawings in detail, where like numerals refer to like parts or elements. To concisely articulate the improvement(s) being claimed and in order to succinctly connect the specific improvement with the component part(s) necessary within the component systems the component parts as illustrated are addressed in multiple figures as appropriate.

The overhead attachment point is depicted by the 1 shown in in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, and 5. In the drawing shown the overhead attachment point is a bag holding beam assembly that is commonly used in commercial gyms. This overhead attachment point could easily be a concrete ceiling, beam or other overhead sturdy object where the mount can be successfully attached and be appropriately affixed from an overhead anchor point so the current invention can move freely and function properly.

The overhead attachment support bar 2 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4 connects the body of the machine to the anchor point 1.

The main support 360-degree hinge 3, is shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. The main support 360-degree hinge connects the overhead attachment support bar 2 and the main support arm 4. This hinge as shown allows the main support arm to move horizontally about a vertical axis in either direction.

The main support arm 4 shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4 connects one end of the main support arm to the main support arm 360-degree hinge 5. It is the introduction of the second 360-degree hinge that allows the main support arm 4 to rotate in a different or same direction than the pivoting support arm 6. You will note in FIG. 3 that the main support arm 4 has multiple spring eyelets 8.

The support arm hinge 5 shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4 and 5 connects the main support arm 4 to the pivoting support arm 6. It is the support arm hinge 5 which allows the pivoting support arm 6 to move in a 360-degree arc. FIG. 4 shows the pivoting support arm extended in the same path as the main support arm 4. It is this ability to extend the bag away from the location of the overhead attachment support bar 2 that requires the user to move to engage the bag.

The pivoting support arm 6 as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 4 and 5 show the pivoting support arm in various positions. It is the rotation between the main support hinge 3 and the support arm hinge 5 which allows the bag to move freely in any direction to include lateral movement not just rotational movement.

The load spring 7 shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 4 and 5 connects the main support arm 4 and the pivoting support arm 6. As shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 5 the load spring may not always have a load on it. When this happens the bag moves while the athlete is hitting it until the spring loads as shown in FIG. 4. As shown in FIG. 4 the athlete is required to move away from the main support hinge 3 and toward the bag. The loading of the load spring 7 provides energy to move the bag quickly back towards the main support hinges 3 using the inertia provided by the athlete. There are two rotational directions that can be activated as the bag is moved by the load spring 7 depending on how the bag was hit. This creates the horizontal movement of the bag similar to the erratic unpredictable movement of an opponent.

The spring eyelets 8 are shown in FIG. 3 are the connection points for the spring(s) which allow connection between the main support arm 4 and the pivoting support arm 6. Note in FIG. 3 that the main support arm 4 has multiple spring eyelets 8. Having multiple anchor points allows for various spring tensions and various amounts of springs which effects the speed and movement of the bag. Although the pivoting support arm 6 is shown with only one spring eyelet 8 it should be realized that in different embodiments of construction multiple spring eyelets 8 may be required as would be the case with adding successive support arms.

The bag support eyelet 9 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4 connects the pivoting support arm 6 to the bag. If you will note in FIG. 5 the bag support eyelet 9 is connecting the bag to a secondary support arm 13. Regardless of the number of support arms the bag support eyelet 9 will always connect the final support arm to the bag 11.

The mounting brackets 10 shown in FIG. 2 connect the overhead attachment support bar 2 to the overhead attachment point 1. In other embodiments of design the bracket may not be used. Instead a flat overhead attachment support bar 2 may be used that mounts directly to the overhead attachment point 1.

The heavy bag 11 shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 5 is supported such that the rotational and lateral movement of the bag is multidirectional. Changing direction, speed, and distances are key in learning footwork and attack combinations.

FIG. 5 is a representation of a variation of the scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount having an additional secondary support arm hinge 12 and a secondary support arm 13 and a second load spring 7. This variation in design allows for additional smooth free movement in a larger area of movement; it being understood however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount being a heavy bag holding exercise device for combat arts training such as Mixed Martial Arts or Boxing an apparatus specifically supported to have a pivoting scissor action heavy bag movement which allows the bag to move laterally in a horizontal plane parallel to the ground or floor allowing for multidirectional movement to exercise, condition and develop the muscles of the user, and; composed of an overhead attachment support bar, two support arms, two 360-degree movement hinges having rotational movement about a vertical axis in either direction, and a minim of one load spring, and; specifically supported such that the suspended bag will move laterally when hit in a horizontal plane with limited pendula motion thereby simulating the horizontal sliding movement of an opponent, while having an endless path of bag movement, and; a bag mount where striking the supported bag provides the inertia which causes the main support arm to move in one rotational direction taking the bag and pivoting support arm with it turning in unity of motion with the main support arm until the spring loads and contracts thereby causing the pivoting support arm and suspended bag to rotate in the opposite direction as the main support arm which continues to rotate in its original direction, and; it is this action which creates a scissors movement between the main support arm and pivot support arm while the load spring reverses the rotational movement of the main pivot arm which creates a multidirectional sliding bag movement.
 2. A scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount as set forth in claim 1 where the load spring(s) may be a large stretchable band or bands.
 3. A scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount as set forth in claim 1 where said bag mount is constructed of steel, aluminum, a metal composite, wood, plastic or an epoxy resin or a combination thereof to reduce weight and improve strength.
 4. A scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount as set forth in claim 1 where more than one load spring is used on either side of the 360-degree hinge(s) to increase the force required to load the spring(s) thereby increasing the movement of the bag when the load springs constrict.
 5. A scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount as set forth in claim 1 where the 360-degree hinge(s) are a pin joint which does not have sealed bearings.
 6. A scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount as set forth in claim 1 where the overhead attachment support bar is flat and has predrilled holes for mounting to rafters, ceilings or beams.
 7. A scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount as set forth in claim 1 having multiple anchor points which allows for various spring tensions which effects the speed and movement of the bag.
 8. A scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount as set forth in claim 1 where the inertia of the bag provides a load on the load spring which in turn has the effect of moving the bag quickly improving the speed of the bag over a large area of movement. Instead of the bag slowing down after the athlete hits it the load spring captures the inertia and moves the bag. Normally the bag slows as the inertia dissipates but collecting it in the load spring provides energy to perpetuate the movement so the athlete must then move quicker to keep up with the bag after they hit it.
 9. A scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount being a heavy bag support mechanism which allows the bag to move laterally in a horizontal plane parallel to the ground or floor allowing for multidirectional movement to exercise, condition and develop the muscles of the user, and; a overhead attachment support bar which connects to the ceiling or like overhead structure by mounting brackets and; a main support arm attached at the center of the main overhead attachment support bar by a 360-degree pivot joint which allows the main support arm to swing horizontally in either direction, and; the pivoting support arm attaches to the other end of the main support arm by a 360-degree pivot joints which allows the pivoting support arm to swing horizontally in either direction relative to the main support arm creating a second rotational plane relative to the main support arm, and; this double rotation allows the pivoting support arm to move in the opposite direction of the main support arm creating the scissor movement of the mount, and; a load spring connecting the main support arm to the pivoting support arm which captures energy and striking the supported bag provides inertia which causes the main support arm to move in one rotational direction taking the bag and pivoting support arm with it until the spring loads and then contracts causing the pivoting support arm and suspended bag to rotate in the opposite direction as the main support arm thereby creating an unpredictable and un anticipated bag movement.
 10. A scissor action pivoting heavy bag mount as set forth in claim 9 wherein a secondary support arm and at least one additional load spring are added to the pivoting support arm creating a third pivoting axis which increases the range of motion of the bag and improves ease of unpredictable movement of the bag. 